Hearts, Longevity, and Legacy: The People Behind Community Action, Inc.
As we close out our incredible September Tenant Spotlight series, we want to take a moment to look back at an inspiring month. Over the past few weeks, we’ve journeyed through Community Action, Inc.’s remarkable 50-year history, explored the deep complexities of poverty and whole-family solutions, and looked at how powerful co-location partnerships at the CRC CARE Center drive change across 12 Kansas counties.
As we wrap up our celebration, we want to shine a light on what truly drives this organization forward: the people.
Systems, buildings, and strategic plans are vital, but it is the human heart—the dedication, empathy, and daily commitment of staff members—that turns an agency into a true community anchor. Today, as we transition from September into a fresh month of community work, we hear directly from two incredible team members whose journeys represent the past, present, and future of Community Action.
Fresh Perspectives: One Year of Impact
For staff members who are newer to the team, the energy and depth of Community Action's mission can be profoundly inspiring.
Cathy Marcotte, who has been with CAI for one year, shares:
"In just one year at CAI, I've learned so much about our communities and counties, the clients and families we serve, and built incredible relationships with our staff and partners. I'm proud to be a part of an organization where people matter and we make a difference."
Cathy's experience highlights the welcoming, collaborative culture that defines the CRC CARE Center environment—where building strong relationships is the foundation for effective community work.
A Lifetime of Dedication: 42 Years of Change
Longevity in the nonprofit sector is a rare and powerful testament to an organization's core values. When people dedicate decades of their lives to a mission, it speaks volumes about the culture, the impact, and the genuine good being done in the community.
Brigette Arnold, who has dedicated an astounding 42 years to Community Action, Inc., reflects on her journey:
"I've been here 42 years because CAI has simply been a great place to work. I've enjoyed the people, the work, and being a part of change in our communities."
Forty-two years of showing up, lifting others, and adapting to meet the evolving needs of Topeka and surrounding counties is nothing short of extraordinary. Brigette’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of Community Action's success.
Looking Back, Moving Forward
From a 50-year legacy of empowering families to everyday heroes like Cathy and Brigette who show up with passion and heart, Community Action, Inc. exemplifies what it means to build a stronger Topeka together.
While our September Tenant Spotlight series concludes today, the work and partnership never stop. We invite you to stay connected, support local initiatives like the United Way’s Day of Caring, and continue championing the whole-family approach in our community all year round.
Thank you for joining us for this month's spotlight! To learn more about Community Action, Inc., explore their programs, or find out how you can get involved, visit the Community Action, Inc. website or follow along with us here at Community Resources Council.